For better or worse, McDonald’s is now an institution. Wherever you go in the world, you are likely to see a set of those oh-so-familiar golden arches and be able to buy cheap, nutritionally questionable fast food.

But this wasn’t always the case. Like every other chain, McDonald’s had to start somewhere, and this video shows its humble beginnings. This is the first ever McDonald’s television commercial and Ronald was one creepy looking clown in those days.

In those days it seemed to be all about the clown – him being the center of attention. Now, Ronald is brought out only on special occasions with the main focus being on cheap meals for the whole family. Maybe McDonald’s finally cottoned on to the fact that clowns are creepy and should be locked in the basement whenever possible.

Why the hell has he got a tray on his head and a cup for a nose? And how much better would it have been if he’d been run over as he danced and pranced outside the restaurant? Isn’t that the fate all clowns deserve?